Arsene Wenger has predicted that Cesc Fabregas will one day return to the Emirates to see out his career with Arsenal.

The midfielder, 25, left the Gunners to join Barcelona in a £30million deal back in 2011, but Wenger reckons his former skipper still has a great affection for the club, and could make an emotional comeback in four years’ time.

‘He’s an Arsenal man. He loves Arsenal. He watches every Arsenal game. Barcelona was his home town where he grew up and you have to accept this, especially as Barcelona are the best team in the world.

Former hero: Ex-Arsenal skipper Fabregas

‘He won’t return in the next two or three years but, after that, maybe.

‘It was the tipping point for me. It’s important that we have some consistency. When you go for a policy like we have with young players, it’s important you keep them at your club from 23 onwards. If they are ingrained with Arsenal, it is easier to keep them.’

Wenger sees his Arsenal troops entertain Manchester City this afternoon, and the Frenchman is under no illusions as to just how crucial a clash this is for both sides.
‘Neither of us can afford to draw, let alone lose,’ said Wenger.

‘I don’t think the championship is over. Let’s judge at the end of the season but you want to win on Sunday, not draw or lose.

‘We need a big win against a big team to gain confidence. Our team will be dangerous when we are confident.’